U.S. Threatens TikTok Ban if China Blocks Asset Sale Deal

The fate of TikTok in the United States is at a critical juncture, with Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick warning that the app will be banned unless China approves a deal to sell TikTok's U.S. assets and relinquish control of its technology and algorithm to American owners. The Trump administration insists that while ByteDance, TikTok's Chinese parent company, may retain a minor stake, ultimate control must rest with Americans to address national security concerns about data sharing and influence. Negotiations have stalled due to China's reluctance to approve the sale, particularly over control of TikTok's recommendation algorithm, which ByteDance argues could be managed locally without a full sale. President Trump has extended the deadline for the divestment to September 17, emphasizing ongoing but challenging talks with China amid broader trade tensions. TikTok, used by over 150 million Americans, faces a shutdown if no agreement is reached, as the administration prepares to enforce a 2024 law requiring divestment or a ban. The situation remains fluid, with concerns that the standoff may be influenced by larger strategic trade negotiations between the U.S. and China.